David Crosby, of Crosby Stills Nash and Young and Byrds fame, struck a man, Jose Jimenz who was jogging on Baseline Avenue in Santa Ynez, California, shortly before 6pm Sunday evening. Crosby was driving a Tesla at 55 miles per hour. This story is reported on CNN and other news websites.
Jimenez suffered “multiple fractures, abrasions, and lacerations” and was airlifted to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Thankfully, none of his injuries are life-threatening. It is further reported that Crosby, who was not injured, stopped his car immediately and that drugs and alcohol did not play a role.
As to causation, Crosby claimed he was momentarily blinded by the sun and thus, didn’t see Jimenez. It is also reported that Jimenez was running on the same side of the road as Crosby, rather than on the other side.
I have never been to the location of the accident, but a video on CNN shows a nice street, without sidewalks. It looks like it might be a nice quiet place to run. I couldn’t figure out how to embed the CNN Video here, but this is the LINK.
I don’t know more details, but this brings up many issues on the topic of running and safety, including what we, as runners, need to do to protect ourselves, and what drivers need to do to avoid accidents such as this.
What do you do to protect yourself when running? Are there streets you will or won’t run on? Do you wear a flashing light or reflective running gear? Are there certain times of the day that you avoid running on the roads? What side of the street do you run on? Have you had any close calls or seen others hurt when running on streets?
A New York frequent flyer who elegantly combines her passions for worldwide travel, running a gazillion marathons all over the globe and staying fit ... without sacrificing her fancy for good wine and food.
As a retired triathlete when out on any run, bike, or anywhere outside of the house I have a Road ID. It can let medical personnel know your medical history and be able to contact family. If one runs races of any length there is always an ad for Road ID in the goodie bag. It just amazes me how many people do not have this life saving device with them. I do hope that the runner is not hurt to bad, and will be able to return soon to his sport. As for having the Road ID it’s not if you get hurt it is when you get hurt. By the way I do not work for or associated with Road ID in any way except as a happy customer.
Always, always if at all possible run toward the traffic, not with it.
Beware of electric cars as they are quiet.
Don’t run with headphones on if running in traffic.
Wear bright or neon type clothing, hats, etc. when running if possible.
Watch out for drivers and assume they don’t see you.